The FIA Takes the Wheel: A New Era for World RX
In a surprising turn of events, the FIA has announced that it will be stepping in to assume control of the World Rallycross Championship. This decision comes after the series’ previous promoter, Rallycross Promoter GmbH, relinquished its role following the conclusion of the 2024 season. The torch has now been passed to the FIA, signaling a new chapter in the championship’s history.
Kenneth Hansen, a seasoned team owner in the World RX, expressed optimism about the FIA’s involvement, highlighting the potential for positive changes to come. With the FIA at the helm, decision-making processes are expected to be more streamlined without the need for an additional intermediary. Hansen believes that this shift will pave the way for a brighter future for the championship.
Looking ahead to the 2027 season, Hansen sees promise in the alignment of rallycross regulations with those of the World Rally Championship. This move is anticipated to attract more teams to the series and potentially lead to an increase in grid sizes. The close relationship between the two championships is seen as a strategic move that could bolster the appeal of rallycross to a broader audience.
One of the key priorities for the FIA moving forward is to expand the viewership of rallycross by focusing on free-to-air television coverage. This strategic decision underscores the FIA’s commitment to enhancing the visibility and accessibility of the sport. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, emphasized the organization’s dedication to elevating rallycross to new heights and engaging fans worldwide.
As the FIA takes the reins of the championship, there is a renewed emphasis on developing the grassroots of rallycross. This initiative aims to cultivate talent from the ground up, providing aspiring drivers with a clear pathway to progress through the ranks. Emilia Abel, FIA Junior Road Sport director, expressed confidence in the potential for growth and development on a global scale under the FIA’s leadership.
Hansen echoed the sentiment that a strong world championship is essential for nurturing talent and sustaining interest in rallycross. By inspiring young enthusiasts to aspire to compete at the highest level, the championship can attract a new generation of drivers and fans. The allure of the world championship serves as a beacon of hope for those dreaming of a future in rallycross.
In the coming months, fans can anticipate an announcement of the 2025 calendar, as the FIA sets its sights on revitalizing the championship. Despite the cancellation of some events, the FIA’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and competitive rallycross landscape remains unwavering. With the FIA at the helm, the stage is set for an exciting new era in World RX.
